David Cameron claims a grasp of the English language is an essential part of the integration process. Meanwhile new rules obliging immigrants to have a basic level of English came into force last year. This law is currently being challenged in the courts.

We'll also look at cuts announced to state-run ESOL (English for speakers of other languages) courses. Half of these places are at risk from cuts. How does that fit in with Cameron's vision of English being spoken by all communities?

Is it fair to force people to learn our language? Or is a common language the one thing which holds a multi-ethnic nation together?

To debate these issues, Hugh Muir is joined by Alan Travis, the Guardian's home affairs editor; Fazil Kawani, the director of integration at the Refugee Council; and Eric Ollerenshaw, the Conservative MP for Lancaster and Fleetwood.

Plus: Hugh visits a citizenship ceremony and Green Lanes library in east London to explore the importance of English language skills. Martin Wainwright visits Bradford, where many still don't speak English despite living here for a generation.